Both Locksley and Sarkisian served as offensive analysts for Alabama this season.

“We are excited to add Mike Locksley to our staff as an assistant coach on the offensive side of the football,” Saban said in a statement on Momday. “He is an outstanding offensive mind who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as both a head coach and offensive coordinator. Mike is also one of the best recruiters in the nation and will be an excellent addition to our staff.

“His time as an analyst with us over the past season should also ensure a smooth transition and a full understanding of how our organization operates.”

Prior to Alabama, Locksley served as Maryland’s interim head coach for the final six games of the 2015 season following the firing of Randy Edsall. He worked as the Terrapins’ offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach from 2012-15 after serving as New Mexico’s head coach from 2009-11. The Lobos went 2-26 under Locksley.

“I want to thank Coach Saban and The University of Alabama for this opportunity,” Locksley said in a statement on Monday. “I can’t wait to get back out on the football field and the recruiting trail as we turn our attention to the 2017 season. I have always appreciated the storied history of the Alabama football program, but the chance to spend the past year looking at the program from the inside out really showed me why this place is so special.”

Locksley’s hire follows the news of Mario Cristobal‘s departure to Oregon where he will serve as the Ducks’ co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach.

Sarkisian and Locksley will replace former offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin, who left Tuscaloosa to pursue a head coaching opportunity at Florida Atlantic. In 2016, Alabama finished No. 4 in total offense within the SEC while averaging 455.3 yards per game.